RIO DE JANEIRO –Airbnb, the world’s leading community-driven hospitality company, today announced it will turn the iconic soccer temple known as Maracanã, into a once-in-a-lifetime experience hosted by Brazilian soccer star, Renato Gaúcho. On May 30, the evening before the popular Flamengo-Fluminense (Fla-Flu) derby match in Rio de Janeiro, a lucky winner and their guest will have the chance to sleep inside a redesigned VIP suite, complete with its own bed, bath and foosball table, bringing to life an idea that thousands of sports fans have only dreamt about. The temporary Airbnb listing will feature Brazilian decor and one of the best seats in the house, a midfield view of the entire stadium.

« Maracanã has not only been an icon for the city of Rio de Janeiro and Brazil, but for soccer fans all over the world,” said Gaúcho, the « King of Rio », an important figure in Brazilian soccer and popular soccer coach. « It’s been an honor to have played on this field and I look forward to sharing my personal stories and memories with the winners on what makes this place so special and like my second home.”

“Bringing to life this type of unique overnight stay for our community is just one example of how we’re redefining the way people travel with Airbnb,” said Kay Kuehne, Regional Director for Latin America. “With more than 1 million listings in more than 190 countries, you can truly feel like you can belong anywhere, whether it’s a home or a once in a lifetime opportunity in an airplane, ski lift or even your very own stadium.”

Upon arrival to Maracanã, the winners will be greeted by Gaúcho, who will give a very special guided tour of the stadium, including visits to the president’s suite, locker rooms and press room, followed by some time on the field practicing penalty kicks. The winners, along with Gaúcho, will then be treated to a picnic on the field where typical Brazilian food will be served in addition to a private performance by local Rio musicians. That evening, the winners will get to shower inside the same locker rooms the teams use before heading off to bed in their own VIP suite. Additionally, the winners will also get to watch the Fla-Flu derby game the following day from the comfort of their own listing.

« Maracanã belongs to the fans, those who are passionate about soccer and live for the game. It is one of the most important stadiums in the world and a place where dreams become reality. For us, it is an absolute joy to enter into this partnership and help make it possible for this unique experience to take place,” said Marcelo Frazão, Marketing Director for Maracanã.

Built in 1950, Maracanã has hosted countless major soccer games in Brazil including last year’s 2014 World Cup finals match where Germany defeated Argentina, becoming the current world champion. The stadium will also be one of the main venues for the Rio 2016 Olympic Games that will include both the opening and closing ceremonies.

How to win:

For a chance to win this unique experience, visit the Maracanã listing on Airbnb no later than May 21 at 11:59 pm BRT, contact the host and answer the question, “Why would you like to spend a night inside the Maracanã?” This experience is open to everyone all over the world. All terms and conditions of the contest are available at: www.airbnb.com/night-at/maracana